Cross-site scripting (XSS) is one of the most common and dangerous vulnerabilities found on websites. If you manage a WordPress site or any web application, it’s critical to regularly check your website for XSS vulnerabilities to prevent malicious scripts from harming your users or compromising your data.
In this guide, we’ll explain what XSS is, how it works, and how to detect it using an XSS vulnerability checker.
What Is an XSS Vulnerability?
Cross-site scripting (XSS) allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into pages viewed by other users. These scripts can:
- Steal cookies or login tokens
- Redirect users to malicious websites
- Deface your site
- Capture keystrokes or input data
XSS is particularly dangerous because it affects both your website’s reputation and your users’ security.
Common Sources of XSS in WordPress
- Unsanitized user inputs in comments or forms
- Vulnerable plugins or themes
- Exposed search boxes or custom fields
- Improper output escaping in templates
How to Check Website for XSS Vulnerability
1. Use an XSS Vulnerability Checker
You can scan your website using automated tools like:
- PressVuln.com – Detect plugin/theme issues and suspicious code
- XSS Hunter – Track reflected and stored XSS payloads
- OWASP ZAP or Burp Suite – Advanced manual testing
✅ Automated scans can help uncover dangerous vulnerabilities without needing to dig into code manually.
2. Perform Manual Testing
If you have technical skills, try inserting test payloads like:
<script>alert('XSS');</script>
…into form fields, search bars, or URLs. If the script executes, your site is vulnerable.
3. Review Code and User Input Points
- Make sure all input is sanitized with
sanitize_text_field()or similar - Escape output using
esc_html()oresc_attr()in WordPress
How to Prevent XSS Attacks
- Use up-to-date plugins and themes
- Never trust user input—always sanitize and escape
- Enable Content Security Policy (CSP) headers
- Use security plugins that detect XSS activity
Regular scans and code reviews are essential.
Final Thoughts
If you’re not checking your site for XSS vulnerabilities, you’re leaving a door wide open to attackers. Protect your users, your site, and your data.
Use a trusted XSS vulnerability checker like PressVuln.com to scan your domain and stay one step ahead of malicious threats.